Every year, we Filipinos are busy hosting or throwing a holiday celebration during Christmas time and New year. But now that we are all at risk because of the current pandemic, we have to consider the safest way to celebrate. Holiday gatherings with family and friends who do not live with you can increase the chances of getting or spreading COVID-19.

Panahon TV offers the following considerations that you can follow if you are to attend or host holiday gatherings. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-AvbY6NYuI

We know what to do before a typhoon hits, but even after its passing, our safety is still at risk. Find out how to avoid the post-typhoon dangers.

From the approximately twenty cyclones that enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), eight to nine of these make landfall, possibly causing storm surges, flashfloods, mudflows and landslides.

Much has been said about being prepared for a storm’s grand entrance, but our responsibilities on personal safety don’t end there. Once an area is literally taken by storm, we’re often faced with risks such as floods, debris, and power failure. Here’s how we can stay safe.

• • Safety and security come first. After making sure your own family is safe, administer first aid to the injured, and seek medical help if needed. Crisis counseling is advised for those who’ve experienced trauma.

• • Make sure that the storm has fully passed before going out. Avoid flooded areas, weakened bridges, overhanging structures, damaged buildings, power lines and trees.
  • Thoroughly check your home. Watch out for flooded outlets, frayed wires, flammable leaks and animals (e.g. snakes) driven from their dens by high water. Inspect your home before switching the power back on.

• • Be fire smart. In case of power outage, use flashlights to prevent accidental fire.

• • Guard against tainted food. Drink and eat food prepared with clean water.

• • Protect yourself against disease. Apply insect repellant or wear long sleeves, pants and socks to prevent diseases caused by mosquitos.

• • Document the damage. Take videos or photos of your damaged property covered by insurance.

• • Notify the authorities about hazards. Call the Sidewalk Clearing Operations Group (SCOG) of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) at 882-4154 to 74 with local number 317 for the management of uprooted trees and electrical posts.

Sources: PAGASA, NDRRMC, OCD and MMDA.

Related Video: Are you ready for the next typhoon? Here’s what you need to know.